Newshttp://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/threat terror securityurn:uuid:2c4544a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/12/06/courts-user-satisfaction-hits-record-levelCourts user satisfaction hits record levelUser satisfaction with services provided by Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service staff has risen to record levels, a new survey has revealed.Wed, 06 Dec 2017 14:57:20 Z<p>User satisfaction with services provided by Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service staff has risen to record levels with 92% of people declaring overall satisfaction in a new survey.</p> <p>This is a rise from the previous highest satisfaction level of 89% recorded in both the 2013 and 2015 Court User Satisfaction Surveys.</p> <p>The results from specific questions showed very high ratings with 97% of respondents saying they found staff polite and 96% finding staff helpful.</p> <p>In terms of court facilities, satisfaction with the comfort, cleanliness and safety and security of facilities used was generally over 80% while 88% were satisfied with the quality of the catering. </p> <p>Some two thirds of the 2,615 public and professional court users surveyed were very or fairly satisfied with how long they waited to take part in court proceedings; 76% were satisfied with updates from court staff about why they were waiting; and 72% were satisfied with updates from court staff about how much longer they would have to wait.</p> <p>When measured by individual Sheriffdom, overall satisfaction levels mostly showed an improvement on the 2015 figures with levels ranging from 84% to 96%. In the 2015 survey the lowest level for a Sheriffdom was 75%.</p> <p>Welcoming the results Chief Executive Eric McQueen said: &ldquo;We should be very proud of these excellent results which are a credit to SCTS staff and reflect the high-quality service they give to court users. It is reassuring that, even at a time of great change in the justice system, hard work and dedication can produce such outstanding ratings.&rdquo;</p>
The 2017 Court User Satisfaction Survey is <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/2017-court-final-report.pdf?sfvrsn=2">available via this link.</a><br />urn:uuid:a7fb43a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/11/30/clampers-put-the-squeeze-on-fines-dodgersClampers put the squeeze on fines dodgersFines dodgers in Scotland’s cities have paid up thousands of pounds after having their vehicles clamped in a crackdown on people who repeatedly refuse to pay.Thu, 30 Nov 2017 10:24:23 Z<p>Fines dodgers in Scotland&rsquo;s cities have paid up thousands of pounds after having their vehicles clamped in a crackdown on people who repeatedly refuse to pay.</p> <p>Nine drivers in the Glasgow area settled outstanding fines totalling almost &pound;2000 after finding their vehicles clamped. A Porsche owner who had failed to settle a &pound;150 fiscal fine for having no insurance finally paid up after finding his Cayman luxury sports car immobilised when a seizure order was issued by Dumbarton JP Court.</p> <p>In Edinburgh, a Musselburgh man who dodged fines totalling &pound;910 for 6 offences including assault and road traffic infringements dating back to 2014, settled the sum within hours when his Ford was clamped after an order was issued at Edinburgh JP Court. Another city driver who owed &pound;320 in fiscal fines for having an unlicensed vehicle paid up within 24 hours after his Citroen was immobilised.</p> <p>In Aberdeen five drivers owing sums ranging from &pound;100 to almost &pound;800 found their vehicles immobilised. A Mercedes driver convicted of traffic offences and fined &pound;150 paid up within hours of finding his luxury car immobilised while a Renault van driver who had failed to settle his &pound;100 fine for a road traffic offence found his business affected when the van was clamped. He quickly paid up to get back to work. </p> <p>Drivers face having their vehicles taken into storage if they do not settle their fines quickly and an Aberdeen Hyundai driver who owed &pound;780 after being fined for failing to turn up for a trial had his car removed. Owners have to pay additional clamping costs and mounting daily fees when a car is taken into storage and<span style="text-decoration: underline;"> </span>vehicles are ultimately scrapped or sold off if they do not settle their fines.<br /> <br />
A new electronic interface between the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service and the DVLA vehicle database has enhanced the ability to track down drivers with unpaid fines.<br /> <br />
Clamping vehicles is one of a number of measures available to the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) for recovering unpaid fines. Other measures include freezing bank accounts, arresting wages, taking money directly from benefits and even arresting non-payers when they are travelling through ports and airports for business or holiday trips.</p> <p>In all cases, the offenders had opportunities to make payment of their fines at a reasonable and affordable instalment rate &ndash; but did not pay up.&nbsp; </p> <p>A <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/quarterly-fines-reports/qfr34/quarterly-fines-report-34---2017-18-q1.pdf?sfvrsn=2">new report released by SCTS today</a>&nbsp;reveals that the fines collection rate remains consistently strong. It shows that 84% of the value of Sheriff Court fines imposed during the three-year period between 1st April 2014 and 31st March 2017 has either been paid or is on track to be paid through instalments. Of Sheriff Court fines imposed from 1 April to 30 June 2017, 86% by value has been paid or is on track to be paid by instalments.</p> <p>SCTS Chief Operations Officer David Fraser said: &ldquo;The fines enforcement teams continue to be highly effective in securing unpaid fines &ndash; ignoring your fine and not speaking to an enforcement officer if you are having difficulty paying is very unwise. Failure to pay, or to engage with our officers, will result in strong sanctions being taken including arrestment of wages, bank accounts, your car being clamped or inconvenience and embarrassment by being arrested when travelling abroad.&rdquo;</p> <p>All defaulters are issued warnings before action is taken. Those in genuine financial difficulty can engage with enforcement officers to discuss payment terms.</p> <p>Most fines can be paid round the clock on our secure website at www.scotcourts.gov.uk/payyourfine&nbsp; or using our automated telephone payment system by phoning 0300 790 0003. Only fines which involve the endorsement of a driving record cannot be paid electronically at the moment.</p> <p>For those penalties that cannot be paid using the online or telephone payment systems, customers can post payments to Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service, Central Processing Unit, PO Box 23, Glasgow, G59 9DA or take it in person to any Scottish court fines office.</p>urn:uuid:766643a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/11/20/notice-of-jurisdiction-changes-for-private-rented-sector-cases-and-residential-tenanciesNotice: Jurisdiction Changes for Private Rented Sector Cases and Residential TenanciesOn 1 December 2017 new legislation will come into force which will mean the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) will receive applications in respect of Private Sector Rented Cases and Private Residential Tenancies. Mon, 20 Nov 2017 14:13:45 Z<span class="sfImageWrapper" data-sfref="[images|OpenAccessDataProvider|tmb:medium]8f6643a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7"><img title="HPC" style="float: right;" alt="HPC" src="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/general-images/hpc.tmb-medium.jpg?sfvrsn=1" displaymode="Thumbnail" /></span> <p>On
1 December 2017 new legislation will come into force which will mean the
First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber) will receive
applications in respect of Private Sector Rented Cases and Private Residential
Tenancies. Civil cases
relating to the private rented sector will no longer be dealt with as a Summary
Cause Action raised within the Sheriff Court. &nbsp;&nbsp;Fees
will not be charged in relation to these Tribunal
applications.
&nbsp;
</p> <p>P<strong>rivate Rented Sector Cases<br /> </strong>Sheriffs will no longer have jurisdiction in relation to civil cases relating to the Private Rented Sector in Scotland. It will transfer to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber).&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;Landlords will be able to apply to the Tribunal for eviction and repossession orders where they consider that they have ground(s) for eviction.&nbsp; Former tenants will be able to apply to the Tribunal if they consider that their tenancy has been terminated unlawfully. &nbsp;Any actions presented to the courts prior to 1 December 2017 will continue before the sheriff until conclusion.</p> <p><strong>Private Residential Tenancies <br /> </strong>The Private Housing (Tenancies) (Scotland) Act 2016 creates a new Private Residential Tenancy for the private rented sector in Scotland. &nbsp;Applications may be made to the Tribunal by tenants and landlords where the terms of the new Private Residential Tenancy are not being met, or where there is disagreement with the rent that has been set for the property by the Rent Officer.&nbsp; </p> <p><strong>Arrangements for Applications to the Tribunal<br /> </strong>Applications can be made to the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland (Housing and Property Chamber). It is a specialist tribunal based in Glasgow where it has its administrative centre.&nbsp; However, tribunal hearings will also be held in locations across Scotland, as required.</p> <p>Housing and Property cases are heard by one or two of the Tribunal&rsquo;s members and its rules enable informality and flexibility wherever possible. &nbsp;Parties are often unrepresented and the Tribunal&rsquo;s practices and procedures are designed to accommodate that and to provide them with appropriate support throughout the process.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>More Information<br /> </strong>Further information on the process and application forms can be found on the Housing and Property Chamber website <a href="https://www.housingandpropertychamber.scot/">here</a>.</p> <p>From 1 December 2017, appeals from the First-tier Tribunal (Housing and Property Chamber) will be to the Upper Tribunal for Scotland.&nbsp; Housing cases will no longer be able to be appealed directly to the Court of Session.&nbsp; Before an appeal can be submitted to the Upper Tribunal for Scotland, permission to appeal must be obtained.&nbsp;&nbsp;More information can be found <a href="https://www.housingandpropertychamber.scot/who-we-are/appeals-and-reviews">here</a>.</p> <p>For further information relating to the regulatory changes please refer to the Scottish Government&rsquo;s website <a href="https://beta.gov.scot/policies/private-renting/">here</a>.</p> <p><strong>Contact Us<br /> </strong>Housing and Property Chamber<br />
First-tier Tribunal for Scotland<br />
4th Floor<br />
1 Atlantic Quay<br />
45 Robertson Street <br />
GLASGOW G2 8JB</p> <p>Telephone: 0141 302 5900<br />
Fax: 0141 302 5901<br /> <a href="http://www.housingandpropertychamber.scot/">www.housingandpropertychamber.scot</a></p>urn:uuid:490543a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/11/13/powers-of-attorney-now-on-targetPowers of Attorney Now on TargetThe increase in applications for Power of Attorney (PoA) is a positive indicator that more people are viewing PoA as a vital part of their long-term life planning.Mon, 13 Nov 2017 12:24:07 Z<p>The increase in applications for Power of Attorney (PoA) is a positive indicator that more people are viewing PoA as a vital part of their long-term life planning.</p> <p>While the increasing numbers of applications have challenged us this year, we are pleased to report we are now meeting our 30 day registration target for PoA applications made either by correspondence or online using EPOAR, (Electronic Power of Attorney Registration).</p> <p>Our current timescales are&nbsp;26 working days for correspondence applications and 10 working days&nbsp;&nbsp;for EPOARs. &nbsp; </p> <p>We remain able to fast-track applications which are urgent. </p> <p>We will continue to publish our performance on our website at <a href="http://www.publicguardian-scotland.gov.uk"><strong>www.publicguardian-scotland.gov.uk</strong></a>&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>urn:uuid:589e41a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/10/25/customer-service-excellence-(cse)Customer Service Excellence (CSE)The SCTS has been re-accredited for meeting the CSE standard in 2017.Wed, 25 Oct 2017 08:55:38 Z<p>The SCTS has been re-accredited for meeting the <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/cse-report-2017.pdf?sfvrsn=2" title="CSE standard in 2017"><strong>CSE standard in 2017</strong></a>.</p> <p>This year&rsquo;s award is based on the assessors reviewing corporate evidence and visiting the Sheriff Courts in Ayr, Banff, Dumfries, Falkirk, Glasgow, Jedburgh, Kilmarnock, Peterhead, Selkirk and Stirling; Parliament House in Edinburgh; Operations Development, Operations Delivery and Property Services Unit in SCTS Headquarters; and Tribunals Operations Glasgow.</p> <p>The then Scottish Court Service first gained CSE accreditation in 2013 - with sheriffdoms, the supreme courts, the OPG and HQ having gained it at unit-level in 2011 and 2012. We have now been assessed over a three year rolling programme against 57 elements, grouped under the headings: </p> <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li>customer insight</li> <li>culture of the organisation</li> <li>information &amp; access</li> <li>delivery</li> <li>timeliness &amp; quality of service.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>This year eleven elements were given the highest rating of &lsquo;compliance plus&rsquo; (outstanding) &ndash; unchanged from 2016; 43 elements were rated &lsquo;fully compliant&rsquo; (satisfactory), and only three were rated &lsquo;partially compliant&rsquo; (improvement needed) &ndash; one fewer than in 2016.</p> <p>This is an improvement on our 2013 assessment when seven elements were rated &lsquo;partially compliant&rsquo;, and only four were rated &lsquo;compliance plus&rsquo;.</p> <p>SCTS Chief Executive, Eric McQueen said: &ldquo;This is another fantastic achievement and external validation of the excellent service that our staff provide. CSE isn&rsquo;t about the badge; it&rsquo;s about understanding what works really well and where we can still make improvements. In talking to assessors after their review they wanted to underline to me the passion that staff have to provide the best service and the culture of openness and improvement that exists across the whole organisation.&rdquo;</p>
This accreditation follows the latest results from the SCTS court user satisfaction survey undertaken in 2015 which showed that satisfaction levels remained very high at 89%.<br /> <br /> <p>CSE <a href="http://www.customerserviceexcellence.uk.com/CSE_Standard.pdf"><strong>http://www.customerserviceexcellence.uk.com/CSE_Standard.pdf</strong></a></p>
For more information contact <a href="mailto:communications@scotcourts.gov.uk"><strong>communications@scotcourts.gov.uk</strong></a><strong>.</strong><br /> <br />urn:uuid:85ec40a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/10/13/scts-move-to-create-glasgow-tribunals-centreSCTS Move to Create Glasgow Tribunals CentreThe Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) is pleased to announce plans for a new Tribunals Centre in Glasgow.Fri, 13 Oct 2017 09:54:41 Z<p>The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) is pleased to announce plans for a new Tribunals Centre in Glasgow.<br /> <br />
SCTS has worked closely with Her Majesty&rsquo;s Courts and Tribunals Service (HMCTS) to rationalise accommodation in Glasgow and the new Tribunals Centre will be located at 3 Atlantic Quay.&nbsp; With 34 hearing rooms for cases to be heard, the design of the centre will provide excellent facilities for all tribunal users, and specific&nbsp; support for young users with additional support needs.&nbsp; Additionally, the centre will provide facilities for vulnerable witnesses to give evidence to both Glasgow Sheriff Court and the High Court.<br /> <br />
During 2018, the SCTS-supported Housing and Property and Health and Education Tribunal Chambers will move into the new Centre. The HMCTS-operated social security tribunal will move at a similar time with other tribunals HMCTS services to follow at a later date.<br /> <br />
The SCTS provides support to many of Scotland&rsquo;s devolved tribunals and is making preparations for the future transfer of the UK reserved tribunals operations in Scotland, currently provided by HMCTS.<br /> <br />
Lady Smith, President of Scottish Tribunals said:&nbsp; &ldquo;The creation of the new Tribunals Centre in Glasgow is the latest important development in the evolution of the Scottish Tribunals. The premises will act as a hub for tribunals supported by SCTS, providing a range of modern facilities and services for tribunals users. They will also offer a separate, appropriately designed space, for vulnerable witnesses and users, including for witnesses providing evidence for Sheriff and High Court cases in Glasgow. This co-located approach to provision for the tribunals should be regarded as a flagship for the administration of justice in Scotland in the 21st century.&rdquo;<br /> <br />
Eric McQueen, Chief Executive, SCTS said: "This has been an exciting opportunity with SCTS and HMCTS working together to create a bespoke tribunals centre, improving the services we provide for tribunals, while reducing costs.&nbsp; It also provides an early opportunity to bring together SCTS and HMCTS staff to prepare for forthcoming tribunal reforms.&rdquo;<br /> <br />
Kevin Sadler, Deputy Chief Executive, HMCTS said: &ldquo;We are committed to improving people&rsquo;s experience of the justice system by providing facilities that are modern, comfortable and accessible.<br /> <br />
&ldquo;We have worked collaboratively with SCTS on this opportunity and we look forward to creating a joint tribunals centre with them in the heart of Glasgow.&rdquo;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Notes for Editors</strong><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p>For more information on Scottish Tribunals contact <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/the-courts/the-tribunals/about-scottish-tribunals">www.scotcourts.gov.uk/the-courts/the-tribunals/about-scottish-tribunals</a>&nbsp;</p> <p>For more information on HMCTS contact <a href="https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-courts-and-tribunals-service">https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/hm-courts-and-tribunals-service</a>&nbsp;</p> <p>Responsibility for the reserved tribunals administered by HMCTS in Scotland is due to transfer to the SCTS under the terms of the Scotland Act.&nbsp;</p> <p>Images of the 80,000 sq ft building are available by contacting SCTS Communications:</p> <p><a href="mailto:communications@scotcourts.gov.uk">communications@scotcourts.gov.uk</a>&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; tel 0131 444 3310</p>urn:uuid:033140a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/10/05/eleven-thousand-people-enjoy-a-look-behind-courts-open-doorsEleven thousand people enjoy a look behind courts’ open doorsDoors Open Days at 16 courts around Scotland attracted more than 11,000 visitors in a very successful national event.Thu, 05 Oct 2017 10:23:28 Z<p>More than 11,000 people crossed the thresholds at courts around Scotland for this year&rsquo;s Doors Open Days marking a very successful contribution by SCTS to the national event.</p> <p>A total of 16 courts from Lerwick to Ayr took part during the month of September with some of the bigger courts recording thousands of visitors in one day. A wide variety of activities were on offer from mock trials to a chance to try on wigs and gowns and visit custody vans. </p> <p>Members of the public enjoyed the days with many positive comments from visitors young and old with visits to the cells a particular favourite. One young visitor commented: &ldquo;I hope I don&rsquo;t end up here, ever!&rdquo;</p> <p>The courts which took part were: Aberdeen, Ayr, Elgin, Dunfermline, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Greenock, Hamilton, Inverness, Kirkcaldy, Kirkwall, Lerwick, Paisley, Stirling, the Supreme Courts in Parliament House Edinburgh and the High Court in Glasgow.</p> <p>The Doors Open Day at the Supreme Courts Parliament House in Edinburgh also marked the end of this year&rsquo;s Hidden Gem exhibition on the history of the building which ran throughout the Edinburgh Festival and Fringe and was itself visited by thousands of people from all over the world during the weeks it was on.</p>
The Doors Open Days event is organised by the Scottish Civic Trust to enable people to visit hundreds of buildings normally closed to the public. Details can be found on the <a href="http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/">Doors Open Day website</a>.<br />urn:uuid:32983fa7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/09/28/new-vision-to-change-children's-and-vulnerable-witnesses'-court-experienceNew vision to change children's and vulnerable witnesses' court experienceThe SCTS has published a report that describes a radical new vision for the way children and vulnerable adults should be treated in court.Thu, 28 Sep 2017 11:41:28 Z<p>The SCTS has published a report that describes a radical new vision for the way children and vulnerable adults should be treated in court.&nbsp; </p> <p>&nbsp;The next in the series of reports from the Evidence and Procedure Review, the <em><a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/reports-data/evidence-and-procedure-pre-recorded-evidence-report-28-09-17.pdf?sfvrsn=2">Report of the Pre-Recorded Further Evidence Work-Stream</a>:</em>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p> <ul> <li>looks at ways to encourage and improve the use of taking evidence by a Commissioner &ndash; the current system where a child or vulnerable witness can be questioned in advance of trial, under the supervision of a judge; <br /> <br /> </li> <li>recommends changes to the legislation to shorten the gap between initial interview and further examination &ndash; a proposal that the Scottish Government has been consulting on over the summer; and <br /> <br /> </li> <li>&nbsp;sets out a long term vision initially&nbsp; for children, to be extended in due course to other vulnerable witnesses, which takes inspiration from the Barnahus (Children&rsquo;s House) model in place in Scandinavian countries. </li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;The report identifies the twin benefits of reducing trauma to young and vulnerable victims and witnesses and improving the reliability and comprehensiveness of the evidence that is given, thus enhancing the quality of justice and the fairness of a trial.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;Marking the publication, the Chair of the working group, the Lord Justice Clerk, Lady Dorrian, said:&nbsp; &ldquo;In a civilised society, all those who come into contact with the criminal justice system must be treated with respect, and be allowed to engage meaningfully with it.</p> <p>&nbsp;&ldquo;For children and other vulnerable witnesses, this means finding ways to take their evidence in an environment and in a manner that does not harm them further, but allows their evidence to be given and tested fully and appropriately.</p> <p>&ldquo;In the first Evidence and Procedure Review report three years ago, we acknowledged that Scotland was still significantly lagging behind those at the forefront in the field of measures to achieve this; and that we need to develop our own, Scottish, solutions to the challenge. </p> <p>&nbsp;&ldquo;This report is another step in the journey to put Scotland amongst the world leaders in delivering fair and effective justice for all, including the most vulnerable in society.&rdquo;</p> <p>&nbsp;The report looks at ways to improve how children are questioned within the criminal trial process, focusing mainly on the testing of their evidence through cross-examination.</p> <p>&nbsp;The <em>Report of the Pre-Recorded Further Evidence Work-Stream</em> looks at the next steps to encourage and improve the use of taking evidence by a Commissioner.&nbsp; Many of the report&rsquo;s recommendations are already being put into place following the introduction of a <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/rules-and-practice/practice-notes/criminal-courts/criminal-courts---practice-note---number-1-of-2017.pdf?sfvrsn=4">High Court Practice Note</a>, developed with the assistance of Lady Dorrian&rsquo;s working group.</p> <p>&nbsp;The report also recommends changes to the legislation to shorten the gap between initial interview and further examination by allowing an application for a commission hearing to be made prior to an indictment &ndash; a proposal on which the Scottish Government has been consulting over the summer.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;The report then sets out a long term vision for a radical new approach that could be introduced at first for children, but then extended to other vulnerable witnesses.&nbsp; Taking inspiration from the Barnahus model in place in Scandinavian countries and being introduced across other European jurisdictions, the working group considered that children under the age of 16 years who are complainers in cases involving the most serious crimes should be spared involvement in the court process altogether.&nbsp; Such children should have their complete evidence taken in the course of visually recorded forensic interview(s) conducted by highly trained, expert forensic interviewers who are skilled in taking the evidence of children. In this model, there would be no direct questioning of such children by lawyers.</p> <p>The report recognises that realising this vision would require a fundamental shift in practice. It would require increased investment to establish a body of highly trained, skilled and experienced interviewers and to upgrade equipment and facilities in which to conduct and visually record forensic interviews.</p> <p>&nbsp;Chief Executive of the SCTS, Eric McQueen, said: &ldquo;The Evidence and Procedure Review has, over the past three years, shone a light on the need to transform the way in which we take the evidence of children and vulnerable witnesses.&nbsp; This report sets out an ambitious and radical vision for the future which we intend will inform the debate and development of policy, and will contribute to enhanced justice for everyone.&rdquo;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Note for editors </strong></p> <p>&nbsp;1)&nbsp;&nbsp; This report is the latest in the series from the Evidence and Procedure Review.&nbsp; The first <em>Evidence and Procedure Review Report</em> was published in 2015.&nbsp; The <em>Next Steps</em> Report was published in 2016, and was followed earlier this year by the &rsquo;<em>Report on Joint Investigative Interviews</em>&rsquo; which set out recommendations designed to ensure that when a young or vulnerable witness first gives their account to the police and social work agencies, this interview can be used as that witness&rsquo; evidence in chief if the case goes to trial.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Links to all of these reports can be found at <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/evidence-and-procedure-review">http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/evidence-and-procedure-review</a>.&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;2)&nbsp;&nbsp; Lady Dorrian&rsquo;s working group included a number of members of the judiciary and representatives from the Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service, Faculty of Advocates, Law Society, Police Scotland, Rape Crisis Scotland, Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service, Scottish Children&rsquo;s Reporters Administration, Scottish Legal Aid Board, Scottish Women&rsquo;s Aid Scotland, the University of Aberdeen, Victim Support Scotland.</p>urn:uuid:b1ff3ea7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/09/21/solicitors'-fees-consultationSolicitors' fees consultationThe Scottish Civil Justice Council (SCJC) has begun a consultation on the review of solicitors’ fees in the Scottish civil courts.Thu, 21 Sep 2017 13:29:45 Z<h2><span style="font-size: 13px;">The Scottish Civil Justice Council (SCJC) has begun a <a href="http://www.scottishciviljusticecouncil.gov.uk/consultations/scjc-consultations"><strong>consultation</strong></a></span><span style="font-size: 13px;">, which will run until 17 November,&nbsp;on the review of solicitors&rsquo; fees in the Scottish civil courts.</span></h2> <div> <p>The consultation seeks views and evidence from stakeholders on the fees for solicitors that can be recovered under an award of expenses made in the Court of Session, Sheriff Appeal Court and sheriff court.&nbsp; </p> <p>Separate consultation exercises will take place regarding the other categories of fees which are regulated by the Court of Session.</p> <p>The Council&rsquo;s Costs and Funding Committee will be considering the fees prescribed and whether there should be any increase or reduction in the current levels.</p> <p>If you would like to take part in the consultation, please see the relevant documents on the&nbsp;<a href="http://www.scottishciviljusticecouncil.gov.uk/consultations/scjc-consultations">SCJC website</a>.&nbsp;</p> </div>urn:uuid:d7cd3ea7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/09/20/modernisation-of-summary-criminal-justice-in-scotlandModernisation of Summary Criminal Justice in ScotlandFollowing a series of public roadshows, the Justice Board is convinced that the opportunities and enthusiasm exist to bring about substantial modernisation to summary criminal justice in Scotland.Wed, 20 Sep 2017 08:58:20 Z<p>Following a series of public roadshows, the Justice Board is convinced that the opportunities and enthusiasm exist to bring about substantial modernisation to summary criminal justice in Scotland.</p> <p>The Proposals contained in the earlier SCTS report: <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/reports-data/epr_a-new-model-for-summary-criminal-court-procedure_28-feb-2017.pdf?sfvrsn=2">A New Model for Summary Criminal Court Procedure</a>, were discussed and tested in the roadshows attended by defence agents, voluntary organisations, the judiciary, COPFS and court staff, other justice organisations and members of the public. </p> <p>The core proposals in the model are</p> <ul> <li>Pre-trial procedures should take place as part of a digital case management process. Court hearings are only held to address unresolved issues with strong judicial case oversight to focus the trial on those areas of dispute. </li> <li>There is no automatic setting of an intermediate diet and trial diet on a not guilty plea and witnesses are cited only where a trial diet is ready and likely to proceed. </li> <li>Where a witness is cited, a digital update system keeps the witness informed and minimises inconvenience where possible</li> <li>In appropriate cases where guilty pleas are tendered, sentencing could be conducted digitally without the need for the appearance of the accused in court. </li> </ul> <p>Eric McQueen, Chief Executive, SCTS said: &ldquo;The proposals put forward in our earlier report were radical in promoting wider use of digital technology, supported by strong case management and clear timescales. Through the public roadshows there has been good debate and a wide range of views expressed which set out the opportunities and challenges. These are captured in the report published today &ndash; &ldquo;<a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/reports-data/epr---follow-up-report---september-2017.pdf?sfvrsn=4">Follow Up Report to the New Model for Summary Criminal Court Procedure</a>&rdquo;. </p> <p>&ldquo;Taking all of those views into account, the cross - justice working group&nbsp;who developed the proposals,&nbsp;is of the opinion that with appropriate amendment of the original proposals, there is scope to develop the model for potential legislation and implementation. This will include further consideration of the financial as well as procedural implications of moving towards a more digitally enabled system.&nbsp; On behalf of the Justice Board, SCTS will be seeking the support of Scottish Government to consider wider public consultation to help shape future legislation change.&rdquo; </p> <p>The proposals align with the work Scottish Government is already leading regarding digital evidence and the newly published &ldquo;<a href="http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Justice/justicestrategy">Justice Strategy for Scotland</a>&rdquo;. </p> <p>However, in advance of any legislation we can start this journey early next year by testing out some of the ideas and principles. These are likely to include the development and&nbsp; piloting of a practice note for Summary Criminal Cases introducing strong judicial case management,&nbsp; encouraging earlier engagement between parties to identify those matters in dispute in the case and potentially only fixing trial diets when prosecution and defence are sufficiently prepared and the issues requiring proof have been properly focussed.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong>Note for editors </strong></p> <ol> <li>Less serious criminal offences are prosecuted on summary complaint before a court of summary jurisdiction &ndash; that is a sheriff, summary sheriff or justice of the peace sitting alone (without a jury).&nbsp; In 2016/17 there were just over 112,000 summary complaints raised in Scottish courts.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </li> <li>The <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/reports-data/epr---follow-up-report---september-2017.pdf?sfvrsn=4">Follow-Up Report</a> released today is the latest in a series of papers under the Evidence and Procedure Review. The proposition paper <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/reports-data/epr_a-new-model-for-summary-criminal-court-procedure_28-feb-2017.pdf?sfvrsn=2">&ldquo;A New Model for Summary Criminal Court Procedure</a>&rdquo; was published in February 2017; the <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/SCS-Communications/evidence-and-procedure-report---next-steps---february-2016.pdf?sfvrsn=2">&ldquo;Evidence and Procedure Review: Next Steps&rdquo;</a> paper on 26 February 2016; and <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/reports-data/evidence-and-procedure-full-report---publication-version-pdf.pdf?sfvrsn=2">&ldquo;The Evidence and Procedure Review Report&rdquo;</a> on 13 March 2015. </li> <li>Details of the Evidence and Procedure Review are&nbsp; available at&nbsp;&nbsp; <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/evidence-and-procedure-review">http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/evidence-and-procedure-review</a> </li> <li>The Justice Board for Scotland leads the justice organisations&nbsp;in delivering the outcomes of&nbsp;<a href="http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Justice/justicestrategy">Justice&nbsp;in Scotland: Vision and Priorities</a>&nbsp;through a collaborative and proactive approach - <a href="http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Justice/justicestrategy/justice-board">http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Justice/justicestrategy/justice-board</a></li> <li>The working group who developed the proposals included the SCTS, Police Scotland, Members of the judiciary, COPFS, SLAB, and the Law Society of Scotland.&nbsp;</li> </ol>urn:uuid:b2c13ea7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/09/19/inverness-justice-centre-gets-green-lightInverness Justice Centre gets green lightThe Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) has welcomed today’s decision by The Highland Council to approve updated plans for Scotland’s first purpose-built Justice Centre in Inverness, with construction scheduled to begin in November 2017. Tue, 19 Sep 2017 15:28:39 Z<p>The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) has welcomed today&rsquo;s decision by The Highland Council to approve updated plans for Scotland&rsquo;s first purpose-built Justice Centre in Inverness. The justice centre will offer a range of digital and other justice services throughout the Highlands.</p> <p><span data-sfref="[images|OpenAccessDataProvider]692436a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7" class="sfImageWrapper"><span data-sfref="[images|OpenAccessDataProvider]692436a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7" class="sfImageWrapper"><a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/inverness-justice-centre/ijc3.png?sfvrsn=2"><img src="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/inverness-justice-centre/ijc3.png?sfvrsn=2&amp;MaxWidth=700&amp;MaxHeight=500&amp;ScaleUp=false&amp;Quality=High&amp;Method=ResizeFitToAreaArguments&amp;Signature=893AF8818D2376CA967CA5ECB9BD661F" method="ResizeFitToAreaArguments" customsizemethodproperties="{'MaxWidth':'700','MaxHeight':'500','ScaleUp':false,'Quality':'High'}" displaymode="Custom" alt="Design of Inverness Justice Centre" title="Inverness Justice Centre" openoriginalimageonclick="true" /></a></span><br /> </span><br /> <br />
With ongoing support and funding from the Scottish Government, the SCTS is confident the justice centre will be a landmark building in the city. The updated design is more efficient in the use of accommodation and provides an attractive public space, along with improved access. The justice centre will be built on the site of a former bus depot on Longman Road adjacent to the Police Headquarters in Inverness.</p> <p>Eric McQueen, SCTS Chief Executive said: &ldquo;Rather than simply a replacement sheriff court building, the justice centre will play a pivotal role in changing victims&rsquo;, witnesses&rsquo; and offenders&rsquo; experience of the justice system, while providing high quality secure criminal courts, and flexible accommodation for our civil courts and tribunal users. </p> <p>&ldquo;By bringing together the right organisations, we can all focus on problem-solving approaches to reduce reoffending and increase the opportunity for community sentencing, while providing the facilities and technology to remove the need for children to appear in court and in the longer term, digital case management for summary crime.&rdquo;</p> <p>In addition to the direct justice benefits, the location of the justice centre will help transform the surrounding area, with the transfer of Inverness Castle to the Highland Council ownership stimulating economic growth for the city as it works in partnership with the Scottish Government and other public bodies to develop a major tourism attraction.<br /> <br />
Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: &ldquo;Today&rsquo;s decision brings us a step closer to providing new facilities in Inverness to deliver a truly 21st century service. It reflects the Scottish Government&rsquo;s commitment to deliver a justice system that is accessible, modern and fit-for-purpose.</p> <p>&ldquo;By co-locating the court with other justice partners, the people of Inverness and the wider highlands have access to modern facilities and co-ordinated support and service from the relevant organisations.&rdquo;</p> <p>Construction is planned to begin in November 2017 with contractor Robertson Northern Ltd to complete the main building works in 2019.</p>urn:uuid:8b373ea7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/09/13/simple-procedure-special-claims-rules-taking-time-to-get-it-rightSimple Procedure Special Claims Rules – taking time to get it rightAn updated timeframe has been agreed for the introduction of Simple Procedure Special Claims Rules to ensure smooth transition.Wed, 13 Sep 2017 10:22:16 Z<p>Simple Procedure is a court process designed to provide a speedy, inexpensive and informal way to resolve civil disputes where the cash value is less than &pound;5,000. </p> <p>The Simple Procedure Rules were produced by the Scottish Civil Justice Council as two sets of rules: the Core Simple Procedure Rules and the Special Claims Rules for actions including personal injury, eviction, and aliment. </p> <p>The core Simple Procedure Rules came into force in November 2016, with Special Claims Rules being scheduled for implementation in April, 2018.</p> <p>The Making Justice Work Programme Board, which is co-ordinating the implementation of civil court reform, has agreed that the timeframe for the introduction of the Special Claims Rules should be moved by at least six months to Autumn 2018 to enable a smooth transition and ensure the needs of court users are met. </p> <p>The operation of the new Core Rules is currently being reviewed following feedback to identify areas where improvements can be made. As the Special Claims Rules are modelled on the Core Rules it makes sense to listen to the feedback, evaluate the Core Rules and incorporate any improvements before introducing the Special Case Rules. </p> <p>The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service recently held a series of workshops with representatives from the legal profession and consumer groups to help shape the development of a web-based portal, Civil Online. &nbsp;With the commencement of the Simple Procedure (Special Claims) Rules in 2018, SCTS aims to have Civil Online in place to allow solicitors and members of the public to track case progress online, submit cases for registration, defend their cases, pay court fees and lodge documents into what will form the digital case file.<br /> <br />
While Civil Online will initially be for Simple Procedure cases, working with the <a href="http://www.scottishciviljusticecouncil.gov.uk/">Scottish Civil Justice Council</a>&nbsp;we will make sure that future court rules for other case types will support the transaction of business through Civil Online.<br /> <br />
The Scottish Civil Justice Council is working with the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service to ensure the Special Claims Rules meet the needs of court users and to finalise the date for implementation as soon as possible.</p>urn:uuid:4e523da7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/09/01/take-a-look-behind-court-doorsTake a look behind Court doorsA total of 15 courts across Scotland are taking part in the Doors Open Days event during September with tours and a variety of activities on offer.Fri, 01 Sep 2017 14:22:03 Z<p>Aberdeen, Greenock, Kirkcaldy and Lerwick Sheriff and JP Courts are opening their doors to the public this weekend (9-10 September) as part of the 2017 Doors Open Days event.<br /> <br />
Tours, talks, visits to the cells and mock trials will be among activities at the courts with Aberdeen, Greenock and Lerwick opening on Saturday, 9 September and Kirkcaldy on Sunday 10 September.<br /> <br />
A wide variety of activities are being staged at 15 courts across Scotland for Doors Open Days throughout the month. The courts taking part are: Aberdeen, Ayr, Elgin, Dunfermline, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Greenock, Inverness, Kirkcaldy, Kirkwall, Lerwick, Paisley, Stirling, the Supreme Courts in Parliament House Edinburgh and the High Court in Glasgow.<br /> <br />
The Doors Open Days event is organised by the Scottish Civic Trust to enable people to visit hundreds of buildings normally closed to the public.<br /> <br />
Details and timings can be found on the <a href="http://www.doorsopendays.org.uk/">Doors Open Day website</a>.</p>urn:uuid:b0213da7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/08/31/persistent-fines-dodger-pays-up-two-hours-after-being-clampedPersistent fines dodger pays up two hours after being clampedA motorist who had avoided settling his fines for road traffic offences for years paid up just two hours after finding that his Range Rover Vogue had been clamped.Thu, 31 Aug 2017 08:43:06 Z<p>A Glasgow man who had avoided paying fines for road traffic offences over a four-year period settled the outstanding amounts two hours after finding that his Range Rover Vogue had been clamped.</p> <p>The man had received four fines for having no tax or insurance and owed a total of &pound;870. &nbsp;The enforcement team obtained a vehicle seizure order at Glasgow Justice of the Peace Court and his luxury Range Rover was clamped just after 11 in the morning. By 1:30 the same day the man had settled his fines in full.</p> <p>He was one of a number of persistent non-payers who were forced to pay outstanding fines after being tracked by fines enforcement teams. The speed and success of tackling non-payers reflects the effectiveness of the data-sharing agreement reached recently with the DVLA which has made it harder for non-payers to avoid enforcement action.</p> <p>A Lanarkshire man who had avoided paying a fine for six years settled the same day after having his car clamped. </p> <p>The Cumbernauld driver, who owed &pound;525 for fines imposed at Glasgow JP Court for speeding and driving without insurance, had ignored repeated warnings from enforcement officers. But he stumped up within hours of finding that his Skoda had been immobilised.</p> <p>And three drivers in the Stirling and Falkirk area paid up in full after their vehicles were all immobilised within 24 hours. The BMW, Mercedes and Renault were clamped over unpaid fines for motoring offences.</p> <p>Clamping vehicles is one of a number of measures available to the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) for recovering unpaid fines. Other measures include freezing bank accounts, arresting wages, taking money directly from benefits and even arresting non-payers when they are travelling through ports and airports for business or holiday trips.</p> <p>In all cases, the offenders had opportunities to make payment of their fines at a reasonable and affordable instalment rate &ndash; but did not pay up.&nbsp; </p> <p>A new report <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/reports-data">released by SCTS today</a> reveals that the fines collection rate remains consistently strong. It shows that 88% of the value of Sheriff Court fines imposed during the three-year period between 1<sup>st</sup> April 2013 and 31<sup>st</sup> March 2016 has either been fully paid or is on track to be paid through instalments. </p> <p>SCTS Chief Operations Officer David Fraser said: &ldquo;The fines enforcement teams continue to be highly effective in securing unpaid fines &ndash; ignoring your fine and not speaking to an enforcement officer if you are having difficulty paying is very unwise. Failure to pay, or to engage with our officers, will result in strong sanctions being taken including arrestment of wages, bank accounts, your car being clamped or inconvenience and embarrassment by being arrested when travelling abroad.&rdquo;</p> <p>All defaulters are issued warnings before action is taken. Those in genuine financial difficulty can engage with enforcement officers to discuss payment terms.</p> <p>Most fines can be paid round the clock on our secure website at <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/payyourfine">www.scotcourts.gov.uk/payyourfine</a> &nbsp;or using our automated telephone payment system by phoning 0300 790 0003. Only fines which involve the endorsement of a driving record cannot be paid electronically at the moment.</p> <p>For those penalties that cannot be paid using the online or telephone payment systems, customers can post payments to Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service, Central Processing Unit, PO Box 23, Glasgow, G59 9DA or take it in person to any Scottish court fines office.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Notes to Editors</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Photos are available with this release.</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fine defaulters are not named for data protection reasons.</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; A copy of the most recent SCTS Quarterly Fines Report is available at: <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/reports-data">http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/reports-data</a> </p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Many fines are paid by instalments over the course of two or more years which will affect collection rate figures.</p>
&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Most of the money collected through fines payment is sent to the UK Treasury under devolution arrangements set up within the Scotland Act 1998.<br /> <br /> <p>Contact: communications@scotcourts.gov.uk &nbsp;Tel: 0131 444 3310</p>urn:uuid:eafb3aa7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/08/09/civil-online-workshopsCivil Online workshopsA series of workshops with representatives from the legal profession and consumer groups will get under way this month to help shape our move to Civil Online through a web-based portal.Wed, 09 Aug 2017 12:48:28 Z<p>A series of workshops with representatives from the legal profession and consumer groups will get under way this month to help shape our move to Civil Online through a web-based portal. </p> <p>With the expected commencement of the Simple Procedure (Special Claims) Rules in 2018, we aim to have Civil Online in place to allow solicitors and members of the public to submit cases for registration, defend their cases, pay court fees, lodge documents or photographs to what will form the digital case file and to track their case progress online. </p> <p>While Civil Online will initially be for Simple Procedure cases, working with the <a href="http://www.scottishciviljusticecouncil.gov.uk/">Scottish Civil Justice Council</a>&nbsp;we will make sure that future court rules for other case types support transacting business through Civil Online.</p> <p>If you wish to receive updates on Civil Online please send your details including an email address to: <a href="mailto:civilonline@scotcourtstribunals.gov.uk">civilonline@scotcourtstribunals.gov.uk</a></p> <strong><a href="https://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/civil-online-faqs">Civil Online FAQs</a></strong><br />urn:uuid:167b3aa7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/08/03/sheriff-appeal-court-to-sit-in-glasgowSheriff Appeal Court to sit in GlasgowThe Sheriff Appeal Court is to hold its first sitting in Glasgow to hear criminal appeals.Thu, 03 Aug 2017 12:59:05 Z<p>The Sheriff Appeal Court is to sit in Glasgow for the first time on Tuesday 15 and Wednesday 16 August 2017.</p> <p>The <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/the-courts/sheriff-appeal-court/sheriff-appeal-court">Court</a> will hear criminal appeals, sitting in the High Court of Justiciary Saltmarket. </p> <p>The President of the Sheriff Appeal Court, Sheriff Principal Mhairi Stephen, QC, will sit with Sheriff Principal Craig Turnbull, Sheriff Principal of Glasgow and Strathkelvin and Appeal Sheriff Sean Murphy, QC, on Tuesday 15 August to hear appeals by Stated Case and Bills of Suspension. </p>
The president and Appeal Sheriff Andrew Cubie will hear sentence appeals on Wednesday 16 August.<br />urn:uuid:086a3aa7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/08/03/first-judgement-issued-by-the-upper-tribunal-for-scotlandFirst Judgment issued by the Upper Tribunal for ScotlandThe first judgement issued by the Upper Tribunal for Scotland has now been published.Thu, 03 Aug 2017 09:56:40 Z<div> <div> <div> <p>The <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/tribunals/upper-tribunal-decision---uts-ap-17-0002-amp-uts-ap-17-0003_redacted.pdf?sfvrsn=2"><strong><em>first judgment </em></strong></a>issued by the Upper Tribunal for Scotland has now been published.</p> </div> </div> </div> <div> <div property="content:encoded"> <p>A new structure for tribunals in Scotland came into effect on 1 December 2016 with the<span data-sfref="[images|OpenAccessDataProvider|tmb:medium]216a3aa7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7" class="sfImageWrapper"><img src="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/newsarticles/sc_uppertribunal.tmb-medium.jpg?sfvrsn=1" displaymode="Thumbnail" alt="SC_UpperTribunal" title="SC_UpperTribunal" style="float: right;" /></span> launch of the Housing and Property Chamber of the First-tier Tribunal for Scotland and the Upper Tribunal for Scotland. The Upper Tribunal for Scotland is the appeal body for decisions made by the Chamber, rather than such appeals being heard in the courts.</p> <p>The first appeal decision has recently been issued by an Upper Tribunal Judge in a Chamber appeal. It is an important decision in relation to the property factor jurisdiction and is one binding on the First-tier Tribunal. It provides helpful guidance on the definition of a "homeowner" laid down in Section 10(5) of the Property Factors (Scotland) Act 2011 and clarifies the persons who may bring applications to the Chamber under the 2011 Act.</p> <p>The judgment will be a decision of particular interest to property factors as well as users of property management services. The judgement can be seen using this link:</p> <p><a href="https://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/tribunals/upper-tribunal-decision---uts-ap-17-0002-amp-uts-ap-17-0003_redacted.pdf?sfvrsn=2" title="David Shields and Alan Blackley against Housing &amp; Property Chamber">David Shields and Alan Blackley against Housing &amp; Property Chamber</a><br /> <br /> <br /> </p> </div> </div>urn:uuid:b32b3aa7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/08/01/living-wage-employerLiving Wage EmployerThe Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) is now an accredited Living Wage Employer.Tue, 01 Aug 2017 08:50:35 Z<p>The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) is now an accredited Living Wage Employer.</p> <p><span data-sfref="[images|OpenAccessDataProvider]f32b3aa7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7" class="sfImageWrapper"><a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/newsarticles/living-wage-employer.jpg?sfvrsn=2"><img src="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/newsarticles/living-wage-employer.jpg?sfvrsn=2&amp;MaxWidth=600&amp;MaxHeight=400&amp;ScaleUp=true&amp;Quality=High&amp;Method=ResizeFitToAreaArguments&amp;Signature=8ED565A4E0E7C463DBC04A852A902EA6" method="ResizeFitToAreaArguments" customsizemethodproperties="{'MaxWidth':'600','MaxHeight':'400','ScaleUp':true,'Quality':'High'}" displaymode="Custom" alt="Living Wage Employer" title="Living Wage Employer" openoriginalimageonclick="true" style="vertical-align: middle;" /></a></span><br /> <br />
Photo shows: (L-R) Christina Mellon (SCTS Director of HR), Brian Carroll (SCTS/ PCS Branch Secretary), Eric McQueen (SCTS Chief Executive), Rosemarie Smith (SCTS/PCS Branch Chair), John Borris (PCS - North Strathclyde), Amanda Conway (PCS - Glasgow and Strathkelvin).<br /> <br />
&nbsp;<br />
While SCTS has paid living wage salaries as a minimum for recruited staff for some time now, independently employed contract staff of Facility Management contractor, Arthur McKay, now Servest FM, also pays employees working for SCTS the living wage. </p> <p>Servest FM were successful following the retendering of the Facilities Management&nbsp; Contract and the new contract became effective on 1 April 2017.That meant&nbsp; 57 full-time and 278 part-time staff from the former contract, held by Arthur Mackay, received an increase in salary as they moved onto the living wage.</p> <p>Chief Executive Eric McQueen said: &ldquo;It is important for the SCTS to be a living wage employer. Our staff, whether directly or independently employed are part of an important team which supports tribunals, the Office of the Public Guardian, courts and judiciary and we can all take great pride in achieving this recognition.&rdquo;</p> <p>The SCTS received the Living Wage Employer accreditation from the Poverty Alliance which delivers the Living Wage Accreditation Initiative in partnership with the Living Wage Foundation by assessing employers across Scotland.</p> <p>Rosemarie Smith, PCS/ SCTS Branch Chair said: &ldquo;PCS welcomes the announcement that SCTS is now an accredited Living Wage Employer. It means that we can be confident that staff working in our organisation, whether employed by SCTS or by contractors Servest FM, will at the very least be in receipt of the living wage. </p> <p>This will help staff meet the cost of living demands and has far reaching benefits for families, the wider community and the economy. PCS believes it is important to eradicate low pay, delivering dignity and respect in the workplace.&rdquo; </p> <p>&ldquo;SCTS is to be given credit for this achievement and PCS will continue to engage in partnership to build on this fairer approach.&rdquo;</p> <p>There are currently more than 800 accredited employers in Scotland and more than 3000 across the UK. The Living Wage Foundation is an initiative of communities lobby group Citizens UK. </p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>Notes for editors</strong></p> <p>As part of our living wage accreditation we have committed to explore ways to achieve living wage for our remaining service contract. This contract for catering services is due for renewal in 2018. This currently affects 34 staff on contract.&nbsp; </p> <p>&nbsp;<a href="http://scottishlivingwage.org/" target="_blank">http://scottishlivingwage.org</a>/ </p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:uuid:c88838a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/07/13/new-sentencing-videosNew sentencing videosThe Scottish Sentencing Council has added a new series of introductory videos to its website. Thu, 13 Jul 2017 10:15:09 Z<p>The Scottish Sentencing Council has added a new series of introductory videos to its website.&nbsp;</p> <p>The first,<strong> '<a href="https://www.scottishsentencingcouncil.org.uk/about-sentencing/sentencing-video/" target="_blank" title="Sentencing Video">If you were the judge</a>'</strong> follows the court case of Jack who has caused alarm in a nightclub and assaulted the steward. The video explains what the sheriff will consider when sentencing Jack and what sentences are available in Scotland. Viewers can visit the Council&rsquo;s interactive web page to decide what sentence they would give Jack.</p> <p><span data-sfref="[images|OpenAccessDataProvider]b78838a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7" class="sfImageWrapper"><a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/default-album/ssc_video.png?sfvrsn=2"><img src="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/default-album/ssc_video.png?sfvrsn=2&amp;MaxWidth=600&amp;MaxHeight=400&amp;ScaleUp=false&amp;Quality=High&amp;Method=ResizeFitToAreaArguments&amp;Signature=201F43841B0D57D4CD76C528E133437D" method="ResizeFitToAreaArguments" customsizemethodproperties="{'MaxWidth':'600','MaxHeight':'400','ScaleUp':false,'Quality':'High'}" displaymode="Custom" alt="SSC_video" title="SSC_video" openoriginalimageonclick="true" style="vertical-align: middle;" /></a></span><br /> <br />
Other videos show:</p> <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li>how sentencing works for <a href="https://www.scottishsentencingcouncil.org.uk/about-sentencing/about-sentencing-videos/victims-of-crime/" target="_blank" title="Victims of crime"><strong>victims of crime</strong></a>&nbsp;</li> <li>what different sentences mean for <a href="https://www.scottishsentencingcouncil.org.uk/about-sentencing/about-sentencing-videos/offenders-and-their-families/" target="_blank" title="Offenders and their families"><strong>offenders and their families</strong></a>.</li> </ul> <p>The Council is building its website as a comprehensive sentencing resource as part of its work to raise awareness and understanding of sentencing.</p> <p>If you would like to suggest further material, please email them at <a href="mailto:sentencingcouncil@scotcourts.gov.uk"><strong>sentencingcouncil@scotcourts.gov.uk</strong></a><strong>.</strong></p> <p><a href="https://www.scottishsentencingcouncil.org.uk/about-sentencing/about-sentencing-videos/" target="_blank" title="About Sentencing videos">Sentencing videos</a></p>urn:uuid:eb4c38a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/07/11/justice-vision-and-priorities Justice Vision and PrioritiesToday, Scottish Government published the new Justice Vision and Priorities and accompanying 2017-18 Delivery Plan. Through the Chief Executive’s membership of the Justice Board, SCTS is part of this shared vision and the collective commitment to seven key priorities that Government and the Justice Board are working together to address.Tue, 11 Jul 2017 08:40:15 Z<p>Today, Scottish Government published the new Justice Vision and Priorities and accompanying 2017-18 Delivery Plan. Through the Chief Executive&rsquo;s membership of the Justice Board, SCTS is part of this shared vision and the collective commitment to seven key priorities that Government and the Justice Board are working together to address.</p> <p>The Seven Key Justice Priorities are: </p> <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li>We will enable our communities to be safe and supportive, where individuals exercise their rights and responsibilities</li> <li>We enable our people, economy and infrastructure to respond to major risk, recover from emergencies and adapt to emerging threats</li> <li>We will modernise civil and criminal law and the justice system to meet the needs of people in Scotland in the 21st Century</li> <li>We will work with others to improve health and wellbeing in justice settings, focusing on mental health and substance use</li> <li>We will work to quickly identify offenders and ensure responses are proportionate, just, effective and promote rehabilitation</li> <li>We will improve the experience of victims and witnesses, minimising court attendance and supporting them to give best evidence</li> <li>We will use prison only where necessary to address offending or to protect public safety, focusing on recovery and reintegration.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>Eric McQueen, SCTS Chief Executive said: &ldquo;This over-arching vision is ambitious and will rely on all justice organisations building on the already strong collaboration in justice and across the wider public and third sector. Our work, particularly through the Evidence and Procedure Review, to transform summary criminal business, the way we treat children and vulnerable witnesses and the modernisation of the Tribunals fully support these key priorities.&rdquo; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;</p> <p>The <a href="http://www.gov.scot/Topics/Justice/justicestrategy/justice-board"><strong>Justice Board</strong></a> provides leadership for Scotland&rsquo;s justice system.&nbsp; Membership includes the Chief Executives, Chief Constable and senior leaders from Scottish Government, &nbsp;Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service, Police Scotland, Scottish Police Authority, Scottish Fire &amp; Rescue Service, Crown Office &amp; Procurator Fiscal Service, Scottish Children&rsquo;s Reporter Administration, Scottish Legal Aid Board, Community Justice Scotland and the Scottish Prison Service. </p> <ul> <li><strong><a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/SCS-Communications/sct0617502088-1_justice_vision_p3.pdf?sfvrsn=2" title="Visoj and Priorities">Vision and Priorities</a><br /> <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/SCS-Communications/sct0617500500-1_justice_deliveryplan_p3.pdf?sfvrsn=2" title="Delivery Plan"></a></strong></li> <li><strong><a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/SCS-Communications/sct0617500500-1_justice_deliveryplan_p3.pdf?sfvrsn=2" title="Delivery Plan">Delivery Plan</a>&nbsp;<br /> </strong></li> </ul>urn:uuid:a76636a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/06/19/scottish-civil-justice-council-annual-report-publishedScottish Civil Justice Council Annual Report publishedThe Scottish Civil Justice Council has published its fourth Annual Report outlining its achievements, accounts and a summary of the rules prepared during the year.Mon, 19 Jun 2017 09:45:34 Z<p>The Scottish Civil Justice Council has published its fourth Annual Report outlining its achievements, accounts and a summary of the rules prepared during the year.<br /> <br />
The Council Chair, the Rt. Hon. Lord Carloway, said: &ldquo;During the past year, the Council has undertaken a substantial amount of work that will help to shape Scotland&rsquo;s civil procedures well into the future. This includes the publication of a far reaching&nbsp;<a href="http://www.scottishciviljusticecouncil.gov.uk/docs/librariesprovider4/consultations/scjc-consultations/the-new-civil-procedure-rules---first-report-and-annex.pdf?sfvrsn=2">report</a>&nbsp;which sets out the Council&rsquo;s thinking on the overarching principles of civil justice. The Council is keen to engage with court users to ensure the success of such an important project and will be arranging visits across Scotland."<br /> <br />
This year the Council has combined the Annual Report with the Annual Programme, which details how it will deliver its priorities for 2017-18. This means that the Council has put together its achievements, finances and ongoing work schedule in one place for the first time.<br /> <br />
The Annual Report and Programme <a href="http://www.scottishciviljusticecouncil.gov.uk/docs/librariesprovider4/publications/scjc-publications/annual-reports-and-libraries/annual-report-2016-2017-and-annual-programme-2017-18.pdf?sfvrsn=2">is available here.</a><br /> <br /> </p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:uuid:cf4736a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/06/16/taking-child-and-vulnerable-witnesses-evidence-out-of-courtTaking child and vulnerable witnesses’ evidence out of court A Report, with recommendations aimed to improve the way evidence is taken from child and vulnerable witnesses, so that they are protected from potential trauma in court, is published today by the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service. Fri, 16 Jun 2017 08:31:08 Z<p>A Report, with recommendations aimed to improve the way evidence is taken from child and vulnerable witnesses, so that they are protected from potential trauma in court, is published today by the Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service.&nbsp;</p> <p>The <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/reports-data/evidence-and-procedure-review.docx?sfvrsn=4">Child and Vulnerable Witnesses Project Report on Joint Investigative Interviews</a> forms the next stage of the Evidence and Procedure Review.&nbsp; It follows on from two previous documents, the 2015 <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/reports-data/evidence-and-procedure-full-report---publication-version-pdf.pdf?sfvrsn=2">Evidence and Procedure Review Report</a> and last year&rsquo;s <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/SCS-Communications/evidence-and-procedure-report---next-steps---february-2016.pdf?sfvrsn=2">Evidence and Procedure Review &ndash; Next Steps</a>. &nbsp;</p> <p>The Report makes a total of 33 wide-ranging recommendations that open the way to wider use of audio-visual recording of evidence from children and vulnerable witnesses.</p> <p>SCTS Chief Executive Eric McQueen said: &ldquo;The Evidence and Procedure Review is intended to take us towards a criminal justice system at the forefront of best practice in relation to children and vulnerable witnesses.&nbsp; This Report is part of that journey, identifying how best to capture complete, reliable and accurate evidence as soon as possible after an incident is reported.&nbsp; </p> <p>&ldquo;If we get that initial process right, the chances are increased of a child or vulnerable witness not having to give their evidence again if there are legal proceedings.&nbsp; It also increases the chance of a trial process that is fair to all concerned, and minimises the risk of further trauma to any alleged victim or witness.&rdquo;</p> <p>This is at the heart of finding ways to improve the experience of vulnerable witnesses, and the quality of justice.&nbsp; &nbsp;Experience in Scotland and elsewhere suggests that the better the quality of the initial interview, the less likely it is that a witness will need to be brought back for further examination or cross-examination, meaning a lesser risk of further trauma.&nbsp; The recommendations in the Report published today are designed to promote and support achieving that consistently high quality of initial interview.</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Visual recording of investigative interviews</span></strong></p> <p>The proposals build on the existing use of Joint Investigative Interviews (JIIs) &ndash; interviews presently carried out by police and social workers with under-16s who are victims of, or witnesses to, conduct that might be criminal and might indicate an ongoing risk to the wellbeing of the child. &nbsp;These interviews already can be and are sometimes used as a witness&rsquo;s evidence in chief in a criminal trial.&nbsp; They are also used in Children&rsquo;s Hearings.</p> <p>The report explores why JIIs are not used as evidence as much as they could be, what improvements can be made to ensure their quality and consistency and how the system could change to make it easier to use them as evidence in chief.&nbsp; The report&rsquo;s recommendations include:</p> <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li>Better training of police and social workers to improve skills in interviewing children;</li> <li>A standardised approach to training so smaller numbers of interviewers are trained to a higher standard;</li> <li>Funding to provide urgent replacement of existing recording equipment and the provision of encryption capacity;</li> <li>Funding for professional transcribers to transcribe JIIs;</li> <li>Legislative changes to allow earlier vulnerable witness applications and the taking of evidence by commissioner;</li> <li>Review and updating of the 2011 Scottish Government guidance on JIIs.</li> </ul> <p>The second part of the report looks at how to extend the visual recording of investigative interviews and witness statements to a) child witnesses not covered by a JII and b) vulnerable witnesses. Its recommendations include:</p> <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li>Visual recording of&nbsp; investigative interviews and witness statements should first be extended to child and adult vulnerable witnesses;</li> <li>Recording should take place when an investigating officer decides it is appropriate to allow a vulnerable witness not to attend court;</li> <li>Work should begin on detailed plans to introduce visually recorded evidence in summary courts.</li> </ul> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Further issues</span></strong></p> <p>The report also looked at a number of other issues including the type of accommodation used to carry out recorded interviews and recommended improvements, and such things as examining the possibility of setting up vulnerable interview centres along the lines of the child&rsquo;s house (Barnehus) model developed in Scandinavia and adopted by a number of European countries.</p> <p>The Working Group recognised that such wide-ranging and radical reform of evidence-giving has considerable resourcing, investment and legislative implications. The Group suggests a phased introduction of the recommendations with initial emphasis focused on improved training to create a pool of expert interviewers to improve the quality of JIIs.</p> <p>Once this has been achieved, it proposes extending visual recording to child witnesses in cases tried under solemn procedure and then introducing it to adult vulnerable witnesses in solemn cases.</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p><strong><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Background</span></strong></p> <p>The original Evidence and Procedure Review Report highlighted how Scotland could learn from other jurisdictions on how best to take the evidence of children and vulnerable witnesses, making the best use of pre-trial audio-visual recording.&nbsp; The Next Steps Report followed this with a recommendation that &ldquo;there should be a systematic approach to the evidence of children or vulnerable witnesses in which it should be presumed that the evidence in chief of such a witness will be captured and presented at trial in pre-recorded form; and that the subsequent cross-examination of that witness will also, on application, be recorded in advance of trial&rdquo;. </p> <p>The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service was commissioned by the Justice Board to lead work on developing a system to achieve this.&nbsp; Two working groups were established, comprising experienced practitioners from the justice system, child welfare and third sector professionals.&nbsp; </p> <p>One group looked at how to make it easier to use the initial police/social work interviews of children as their evidence in chief in criminal trials, and it is that group&rsquo;s report that is being published today for consideration by Scottish Ministers and other justice agencies.&nbsp; The other group&rsquo;s report, on pre-recording further or cross-examination for trial purposes, will be published in due course.</p> <p><strong>&nbsp;</strong></p> <p><strong>Notes for Editors:</strong></p> <ul style="list-style-type: disc;"> <li>The full report is <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/reports-data/evidence-and-procedure-review.docx?sfvrsn=4">available here</a></li> <li><a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/aboutscs/reports-and-data/reports-data/evidence-and-procedure-full-report---publication-version-pdf.pdf?sfvrsn=2">The Evidence and Procedure Review Report</a> was published on 13 March 2015 followed by the <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/SCS-Communications/evidence-and-procedure-report---next-steps---february-2016.pdf?sfvrsn=2">Evidence and Procedure Review &ndash; Next Steps</a> paper on 26 February 2016. </li> <li>An estimated 4,900 JIIs a year are carried out in Scotland, the vast majority of which are not used in criminal proceedings. &nbsp;Some, however, are used as a witness&rsquo;s evidence in chief if an application for this is made by the prosecution or the defence. &nbsp;Where the witness subsequently requires to be cross-examined for the trial, either party can apply for this also to be pre-recorded by means of &ldquo;taking of evidence by a commissioner&rdquo;.&nbsp; (See <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/docs/default-source/rules-and-practice/practice-notes/criminal-courts/criminal-courts---practice-note---number-1-of-2017.pdf?sfvrsn=4">High Court Practice Note</a>).&nbsp; &nbsp;Even if not directly used for prosecution, a pre-recorded JII may, however, lead to a criminal case being pursued with the witness giving evidence in court or may form evidence in a Children&rsquo;s Hearing case.&nbsp; </li> <li>Use of such recorded evidence is uncommon at the moment, though there is some evidence that it is increasing.</li> <li>Around 50,000 investigative interviews and/or witness statements with individuals under 18 are carried out every year.</li> </ul> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:uuid:c92436a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/06/15/improved-plans-for-inverness-justice-centreImproved Plans for Inverness Justice CentreThe Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) has improved its plans to deliver Scotland’s first purpose-built Justice Centre in Inverness. The new plans will be available for public consultation before being reviewed by Highland Council’s planning committee. Thu, 15 Jun 2017 11:00:53 Z<p>The Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service (SCTS) has improved its plans to deliver Scotland&rsquo;s first purpose-built Justice Centre in Inverness.</p> <p>The new plans will be available for public consultation before being reviewed by Highland Council&rsquo;s planning committee. <br /> <br /> <span data-sfref="[images|OpenAccessDataProvider]832436a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7" class="sfImageWrapper"><br /> <span data-sfref="[images|OpenAccessDataProvider]832436a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7" class="sfImageWrapper"><a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/inverness-justice-centre/ijc1.png?sfvrsn=2"><span data-sfref="[images|OpenAccessDataProvider]832436a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7" class="sfImageWrapper"></span></a><a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/inverness-justice-centre/ijc1.png?sfvrsn=2"><img src="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/inverness-justice-centre/ijc1.png?sfvrsn=2&amp;MaxWidth=500&amp;MaxHeight=400&amp;ScaleUp=false&amp;Quality=High&amp;Method=ResizeFitToAreaArguments&amp;Signature=EA64731DC3FA88D22BD05D6EB5B9619B" method="ResizeFitToAreaArguments" customsizemethodproperties="{'MaxWidth':'500','MaxHeight':'400','ScaleUp':false,'Quality':'High'}" displaymode="Custom" alt="IJC" title="Inverness Justice Centre" openoriginalimageonclick="true" style="vertical-align: middle;" /></a><br /> </span><br /> <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/images/default-source/inverness-justice-centre/ijc1.png?sfvrsn=2"><br /> <br /> </a></span></p> <p>
With ongoing support and funding from Scottish Government, the SCTS is confident the new planning proposal presents an improved design in keeping with what will be a landmark building in the city. The new design addresses planning conditions, is more efficient in the use of accommodation and provides attractive public space, along with improved access via a drop-off area, additional parking and disabled spaces.</p> <p>Eric McQueen, Chief Executive said: &ldquo;Rather than simply a replacement sheriff court building, the justice centre will play a pivotal role in changing victims&rsquo;, witnesses&rsquo; and offenders&rsquo; experience of the justice system, while providing high quality secure criminal courts, and flexible accommodation for our civil courts and tribunal users. </p> <p>&ldquo;By bringing together the right organisations, we can all focus on problem-solving approaches to reduce reoffending and increase the opportunity for community sentencing, while providing the facilities and technology to remove the need for children to appear in court and in the longer term, digital case management for summary crime.&rdquo;</p> <p>Justice Secretary Michael Matheson said: &ldquo;We are working with SCTS to deliver a justice system that is accessible and fit-for-purpose and the new Inverness Justice Centre will give the people of the Highlands access to modern facilities and support all in the same place, making a positive impact for local communities.</p> <p>&ldquo;I would encourage anybody with an interest in the proposals to go to the public exhibition and make sure they have their say.&rdquo;</p> <p>In addition to the direct justice benefits, the location of the justice centre will help transform the surrounding area, with the transfer of Inverness Castle to Highland Council ownership stimulating economic growth for the city as it works in partnership with the Scottish Government and other public bodies to develop a major tourism attraction</p> <p>Construction is planned to begin in late 2017 with contractor Robertson Construction Ltd to complete the main building works in 2019.</p> <p>The public exhibition will take place on Thursday 22nd June in the Magnus Room, Royal Highland Hotel, 18 Station Square, Academy St, Inverness IV1 1LG from 3pm &ndash; 7pm. </p> <p>Notes:</p> <p>Artwork for the new centre design is available by contacting <a href="mailto:communications@scotcourts.gov.uk">communications@scotcourts.gov.uk</a> 0131 444 3310</p> <p>Organisations and services supported in the justice centre include:</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Citizens Advice Bureau</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Highland Council (Criminal justice Social Work)</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Families Outside</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; HMCTS</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; G4S (Security)</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; NHS Highland </p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Police Scotland </p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Scottish Children&rsquo;s Reporter Administration </p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Witness Service/Victim Support Scotland</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Scottish Women&rsquo;s Aid</p>urn:uuid:874634a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/05/25/latest-quarterly-fines-report-publishedLatest Quarterly FInes Report publishedThe latest Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service Quarterly Fines Report is published today, Thursday 25 May, 2017Thu, 25 May 2017 09:29:29 Z<p>The latest Scottish Courts and Tribunals Service Quarterly Fines Report is published today, Thursday 25 May, 2017 and a copy is available at: <a href="http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/reports-data">http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/reports-data</a><br /> <br /> </p> <p>Notes to Editors</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Fine defaulters are not named for data protection reasons.</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Many fines are paid by instalments over the course of two or more years which will affect collection rate figures.</p> <p>&bull;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; Most of the money collected through fines payment is sent to the UK Treasury under devolution arrangements set up within the Scotland Act 1998.&nbsp;&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p> <p>&nbsp;</p>urn:uuid:123734a7-8980-69d2-b500-ff0000d74aa7http://www.scotcourts.gov.uk/about-the-scottish-court-service/scs-news/2017/05/24/securitythreat terror securitySecurityFollowing the increase of the UK Terror Threat to “Critical” please be advised that courts, tribunals and services are operating normally. You may encounter additional security arrangements in certain buildings and we would ask that you leave enough time if you are attending. Your assistance is appreciated. Wed, 24 May 2017 13:32:50 ZFollowing the increase of the UK Terror Threat to &ldquo;Critical&rdquo; please be advised that courts, tribunals and services are operating normally. You may encounter additional security arrangements in certain buildings and we would ask that you leave enough time if you are attending. &nbsp;Your assistance is appreciated. &nbsp;